December 19, 2024
Public Statement: District of Peachland Reaffirms Commitment to Fair Negotiations
The District of Peachland is dedicated to fostering a positive, collaborative relationship with all employees and remains committed to achieving a fair and balanced agreement for both our staff and the community. We recognize the importance of ensuring our workforce is treated with respect and fairness, and we are focused on achieving a resolution that benefits both employees and taxpayers alike.
We understand that there has been some concern raised regarding our ongoing bargaining process. To clarify, the District has consistently worked in good faith to present a financially sustainable and equitable offer to the Bargaining Committee. We believe the offer made, which reflects our community's fiscal realities while ensuring competitive compensation, demonstrates our commitment to our employees.
After lengthy negotiations, when a mutual agreement could not be reached, the District followed the appropriate process, as allowed by the Labour Relations Code, to proceed with a Final Offer Vote. This was not an attempt to sidestep the Union, rather it was a permitted step to advance the bargaining process and ensure staff were informed about the District’s proposal as many staff members expressed they were unaware of the details of the proposal. The claim that the District attempted to bypass the Union is simply inaccurate. To avoid potential concerns over fairness in bargaining, the District chose to proceed with a Final Offer Vote.
We also recognize the importance of providing accurate, timely information to all parties involved. However, the recent communication from the Bargaining Committee to Council included inaccurate and incomplete data. For instance, several critical points in the Union’s comparison charts failed to provide an accurate comparison of compensation packages, and some of the data shared was not part of the ongoing discussions at the bargaining table. This inaccurate information risks skewing the understanding of the proposed offer.
The District is deeply concerned that the use of such inaccurate information is creating unnecessary confusion and hindering the goal of a fair and informed negotiation process. We believe that all parties involved should have access to accurate and transparent data to ensure that decisions are based on a full understanding of the facts.
Our benefits package, which includes 100% employer-paid benefits, is an important component of the total compensation, and we believe it is one of the most competitive in the region. Additionally, our wage offers have been crafted to reflect the unique circumstances of smaller municipalities, where financial realities and operational needs must be carefully balanced.
Looking ahead, the District is fully committed to continuing good faith negotiations. We have agreed to enter mediation to facilitate productive discussions, and we remain hopeful that we will be able to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that reflects the needs of both our valued employees and the community we serve.
We deeply value the contributions of our employees and are committed to resolving any outstanding issues in a way that ensures the long-term sustainability and success of our municipality. We are confident that, through continued open dialogue, we will find a fair solution for all.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding.
